The funeral home a discreet collar killed three other company and aloof, as befits a breed that was once kept imperial Chinese kennels. He's not really fond of being hugged or fussed over, but he'll be a quiet, attentive companion to his favorite person, and his loyalty extends to other family members. If he's raised with children, he'll accept them willingly, but he's not the type of dog to tolerate abuse, he's best for homes with older kids who know how to treat dogs. If he has lots of positive encounters with strangers during his impressionable puppyhood, he'll handle strangers with equanimity. This is, however, a highly territorial and protective breed, who'll give a clear warning to anyone approaching without his person's welcome. The breed's most memorable physical feature be his blue-black tongue. According to Chinese legend, the tongue got its blue at the time of creation, when a Chow licked up drops of the color as the sky was being painted. He also stands out for his almost straight rear legs, which give him a stiff, choppy, or stilted gait. He's not speedy, he's not the best choice for a jogger, but he has excellent endurance and can be a good walking companion. When it comes to training, a verbal correction is usually all that's required to set the Chow Chow straight. No dog should ever be hit, but it's especially counterproductive with this breed. The fiercely proud and independent Chow never respond to physical abuse. But earn his respect with firm consistency, and you won't have any problem training him. If you admire the Chow Chow's unique appearance and independent spirit, you'll have a fiercely loyal companion who be a true treasure your household. To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from a puppy mill, a pet store, or a breeder who doesn't provide health clearances or guarantees. Look for a reputable breeder who tests her breeding dogs to make sure they're free of genetic diseases that they might pass onto the puppies and who breeds for sound temperaments. Experts have speculated that the Chow Chow is one of the oldest dog breeds, and genetic testing has proven that to be true. The ancient breed is believed to have originated Mongolia and Northern slowly moving south with the nomadic tribes of Mongolia. Early depictions of dogs resembling the Chow Chow appear pottery and paintings from the Han Dynasty One Chinese emperor was said to have kept 2 pairs of Chows as hunting dogs. addition to hunting, the dogs were used to guard their owners' possessions. On the down side, their fur was used to trim coats and their flesh was considered a delicacy. the breed went by several names: black-tongue dog wolf dog bear dog and Canton dog How he became the Chow Chow is interesting story. British merchants the late 18th century included some of the bearlike dogs their cargo. Miscellaneous items, including dogs, were referred to as chow chow and the name stuck to the breed. 1781, the Chow was described a British book, by naturalist White. His neighbors had brought home a pair of Chow Chows from Canton and he included them his observations of country life. Fanciers say the breed has changed little since White wrote about them more than 200 years ago. It wasn't until a century later, however, that Chow Chows were imported on a regular basis. who loved dogs, took interest the breed, which boosted its popularity. A breed club formed England 1895. The first Chow Chow to make appearance at American dog show was named Takya, who took third place the Miscellaneous Class at the Westminster Kennel Club show